The 1990 Manipuri film Ishanou (The Chosen One) was restored and screened in the Cannes Classics section of the 2023 Cannes Film Festival. The film was directed by Aribam Syam Sharma, who is considered one of the most important filmmakers in Manipur. Ishanou is a spiritual drama about a Meitei woman’s journey of self-discovery. The film was praised for its beautiful cinematography, its sensitive portrayal of religious traditions, and its strong female protagonist.
The screening of Ishanou at Cannes came at a time when Manipur is facing a period of ethnic violence. The film’s message of tolerance and acceptance is seen as a timely reminder of the need for peace and harmony in the region.
The film follows the story of Ebudhou, a young Meitei woman who is struggling to find her place in the world. She is torn between her traditional upbringing and her own modern sensibilities. She is also struggling with the loss of her mother, who died when she was young.
Ebudhou’s journey takes her on a spiritual quest, as she seeks to find answers to the questions that are troubling her. She travels to different holy sites and meets with different religious leaders. Along the way, she learns about the different traditions and beliefs that make up Manipuri culture.
Eventually, Ebudhou comes to terms with her own identity and finds her place in the world. She realizes that she can be both traditional and modern, and that she can embrace her own unique path.
The film’s message of tolerance and acceptance is particularly relevant in light of the recent ethnic violence in Manipur. The film reminds us that we are all human beings, and that we should respect each other’s differences. Ishanou is a powerful film that offers a message of hope for the future of Manipur.
Here are some additional details from the story:
- Ishanou was restored by the Film Heritage Foundation in collaboration with the National Film Archive of India.
- The film was screened at Cannes as part of a special focus on Indian cinema.
- Ishanou was the first Manipuri film to be screened at Cannes.
- The film’s director, Aribam Syam Sharma, was awarded the Padma Shri in 2002.
